Mount Everest Day: Indians Who Conquered the Summit

May 29, 2025

 Every year on May 29, Mount Everest Day is observed to honor the historic achievement of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, who became the first humans to set foot on the world’s tallest peak — Mount Everest. For India, this day holds added significance as the nation celebrates its own brave climbers who have taken on the mighty Himalayas and made the country proud.

India’s mountaineers have repeatedly shown that determination, discipline, and courage can break every barrier — including the 8,848-meter high summit of Mount Everest.

 Indian Legends Who Conquered Everest

 1. Avtar Singh Cheema (1965)

  • The first Indian to climb Mount Everest.

  • Part of a 1965 Indian expedition that saw 9 successful ascents — a world record at the time.

 2. Bachendri Pal (1984)

  • The first Indian woman to reach the summit.

  • A national icon and inspiration for generations of Indian women.

  • Led numerous all-women expeditions and promoted adventure sports in India.

 3. Arunima Sinha (2013)

  • The first female amputee to scale Mount Everest.

  • A national hero and former volleyball player who turned adversity into triumph.

4. Santosh Yadav

  • The first woman in the world to climb Mount Everest twice.

  • Also the first woman to successfully scale it from the Kangshung Face.

 5. Tashi and Nungshi Malik (2013)

  • The first twin sisters to summit Mount Everest together.

  • Also completed the Explorers Grand Slam — climbing the Seven Summits and skiing to both Poles.

 6. Love Raj Singh Dharmshaktu

  • Climbed Everest seven times — a record for an Indian.

  • A Padma Shri awardee and an icon for Indian mountaineers.

 What Drives Indians to Everest?

  • A deep sense of patriotism and adventure.

  • Government initiatives and support from institutions like the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.

  • Growing awareness about fitness and adventure tourism.

  • Inspiration from earlier mountaineers who paved the way.

 Honoring the Spirit of Indian Mountaineering

Mount Everest is more than just a peak — it's a symbol of human endurance, ambition, and unity. Indian climbers continue to set records, represent the nation globally, and inspire the youth to explore beyond their limits.

Institutions Encouraging the Climb:

  • Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF)

  • Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM)

  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)

 Conclusion

On Mount Everest Day, we salute the spirit of Indian climbers who have dared to stand on the roof of the world. Their journeys remind us that no summit is too high when fueled by courage, preparation, and willpower.